HARROGATE, Tennessee, April 16, 2026 - Three students from the Lincoln Memorial University-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine (LMU-CVM) were recognized on a national stage for their academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to animal health through prestigious scholarships awarded by Dechra Veterinary Products in partnership with the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF).
Gabriella Lopez, Catherine Arnold, and Nevada Gehman were recently named recipients of the Dechra Veterinary Scholarship, a competitive honor awarded to veterinary students across the United States who demonstrate academic achievement and meaningful dedication to the profession.
Lopez received a scholarship in the Dermatology category, while Arnold and Gehman were recognized in Internal Medicine, reflecting the broad clinical interests and strengths represented within the LMU-CVM student body.
“This scholarship is incredibly meaningful to me, both personally and financially,” said Lopez. “The support helps ease the pressure of veterinary school and allows me to focus fully on my training and growth as a future veterinarian. I am truly grateful to the AVMF and Dechra for their support and confidence in my journey.”
Arnold emphasized the connection between clinical training and compassionate care.
“This scholarship fuels the emotional and professional commitment to providing the general foundations of internal medicine in conjunction with spectrum of care to small animal general practices,” she said. “When we open our minds to learning more, we open our hearts to the pets and people who need us the most.”
For Gehman, who is currently completing her clinical year, the recognition carries added significance.
“Receiving this support during my clinical year has been incredibly meaningful, as this phase of my education is both demanding and transformative,” Gehman said. “This scholarship eases the financial pressure that comes with veterinary training and allows me to devote more energy to developing the skills and knowledge necessary to become a competent veterinarian.”
She added that hands-on clinical experiences have reinforced her commitment to the profession.
“Working with animals across a variety of species and medical cases has strengthened my appreciation for the responsibility veterinarians carry and the impact I can have on animal health and welfare,” Gehman said. “I am motivated to uphold the values this scholarship represents through academic excellence, integrity, and service to both animals and the communities they serve.”
The Dechra Veterinary Scholarship Program awarded a total of $60,000 nationwide in 2025, marking the company’s largest annual investment to date in partnership with AVMF.
Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The LMU-Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine is located on LMU’s main campus in Harrogate, Tennessee, with additional academic facilities in nearby Lee County, Virginia. LMU-CVM is an integral part of the University’s medical programs and provides real-world, community-based education in a collaborative learning environment. For more information about LMU-CVM, call 1.800.325.0900, ext. 6600 or visit us online at vetmed.LMUnet.edu.
